In the last two weeks, the Nigerian Armed Forces neutralized 28 terrorists, arrested 113 others and rescued 82 hostages as part of various operations across the country, the Nigerian Defense Headquarters said on Thursday.
According to Maj. Gen. Edward Buba, Director of Defense Media Operations, who briefed journalists on military operations across Nigeria, the arrested suspects include 92 terrorists, six arms smugglers, three kidnappers, six collaborators and seven involved in oil theft.
In particular, Buba noted that the troops in the Niger Delta, southern Nigeria, seized four pumping machines, five outboard engines and 33 illegal refining sites, as well as recovered of 1,166,900 liters of stolen crude oil.
In northeastern Nigeria, the troops of Operation Hadin Kai eliminated seven terrorists, arrested five others and rescued 31 hostages.
In the North Central region, Buba added, the troops of Operation Safe Haven neutralized two gunmen, rescued two hostages and arrested six kidnappers. It was noted that the army arrested a notorious kidnapping gang leader in Plateau State.
The official explained that all recovered items, arrested suspects and rescued hostages have been handed over to the appropriate authorities for further action.
"The operations as enumerated is indicative of the professionalism of men and women of the armed forces, their courage and bravery," Buba said, adding: "Troops will continue to use superior military force to eliminate any group or groups that constitutes a threat to the safety of citizens and own forces alike."
Buba also told the media that at least three military officers and 22 soldiers were killed by suspected terrorists in Niger State. He added that seven soldiers were wounded as a result of the attack, when insurgents ambushed troops in the Zungeru area of the region. The director noted that an investigation into the incident is underway.